[xzins]

I'm an ordained Methodist elder (equivalent of your priest), NYer, in the United Methodist Church.

It is necessary to point out to you on this thread one of the unchangeable "Articles of Religion" of the United Methodist Church. (This is in the 1700's language of John Wesley.)

Article 14—Of Purgatory The Romish doctrine concerning purgatory, pardon, worshiping, and adoration, as well of images as of relics, and also invocation of saints, is a fond thing, vainly invented, and grounded upon no warrant of Scripture, but repugnant to the Word of God.

That said, this does not say that one cannot have a serious discussion about art and the church as opposed to veneration/adoration etc. In other words, it's the PURPOSE of any "art" that makes it appropriate or inappropriate.

If for reflection, commemoration, etc., then there's no problem. As soon (I'm speaking about our church) as one crosses the line into veneration, adoration, worship, etc., then one has violated our 14th Article of Religion.

[Kolokotronis]

"As soon (I'm speaking about our church) as one crosses the line into veneration, adoration, worship, etc., then one has violated our 14th Article of Religion."

This is likely clear from the rule you have quoted from John Wesley. But I have a question. I assume that Wesley did not think he was creating an entirely new and previously unheard of religion when Methodism was established. If I am correct, it appears that your 14th Article is in direct contradiction to the decision of the 7th Ecumenical Council, which was a council of the entire One Church, cited earlier. It would seem to be the enactment in your 25 Articles of a point of positive heresy. Far from being a "Romish" doctrine, this was a statement of dogma of the One Church in the persons of mostly Eastern bishops and the Empress. Would John Wesley have been aware of this (I assume he was as he was an educated man) and how did he deal with this apparent heresy? If he knowingly rejected this dogma proclaimed by the council, why and what other dogmas did he reject and on what basis. Thanks.